Foodbanks
Feedback
I follow a lot of bargain/coupon/money saving groups on Fb & I am always amazed how quickly people say 'Go to a foodbank' when people ask for general advice on how to make ends meet. I don't want to get into a discussion about how no one in this day & age should need to use one, I am just curious to know at what point you think you should use a foodbank?
For example would you exhaust all other means such as asking friends & family if they can help or once you were down to your last £20 for the week for your family would you think that was okay?
Again this post isn't to cause any arguments so it can be deleted if not appropriate 
There are very few if any where you can just go. You need to be referred by a doctor, social worker, advice centre, council etc. Then there is a limit to the number of times you can go.
If you are on benefits the DWP is supposed to have information about food banks but apparently they aren't always keen to supply it. If you feel that you need to, don't delay trying to get a referral because you might not get it without a lot of trecking around. Check your local food banks online, let them know your situation and see what their requirements are. They vary even between branches of the same organisations. They aren't all open everyday and they don't always answer the phone every day so it is best not to wait until you totally run out of food.
If by 'is it okay', you mean is it acceptable, you can't worry about that if you are facing a day or more without food. There will always be people who enjoy judging others but their opinion is not worth worrying about. I think that includes people who think that they are part of normal budgeting.
I don't need to access one myself but can imagine it must be a very difficult situation to find yourself in. As I said I just always see them mentioned & was curious, I appreciate your feedback. I always try to donate when I can as foodbanks are essential for people in crisis. My local lists the items they are short of on their website so you can donate what they need the most.
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